Not enough people make the most of their basement. They have all that space just sitting there, yet they choose to use it for additional storage. Sure, sometimes it’s good to have all your unused possessions in one easily manageable spot, but, aside from the fact that basements usually become chaotic spaces where you can’t find anything, wouldn’t it be better to keep your goods elsewhere, and get an awesome basement instead? For us, the answer is clear. Below, we take a look at a few tried and tested methods for not only adding another living space to your property, but one that might just become your favorite room in the house.

Clear the SpaceTry as you might, it’s going to be difficult to really sink into that luxury feeling if there are boxes stacked up in the corner. If you’re going to do this, then you need to do it properly, which means clearing the space of all the things that don’t need to be there. To begin, go through the items, and make some hard calls whether you really need to have them or not; many people hold on to things they will, in all likelihood, never use again. Selling them on will free up space, and put some money in your back pocket. For everything else, move to other storage areas of your home – there are plenty of innovative ways to store items these days, and it’s nearly always possible to make space.

Make it CozyComfort is luxury’s best friend, so go big as you can on this front. It’s not enough just to throw down an old couch that’s no longer fit for upstairs use; if you’re going to live in luxury, then it’ll be worthwhile investing in a new couch, pillows, and throws. What type of comfort you add will depend on what you’re planning on using the space for (the needs of a luxury social space will differ from a space in which you’re looking to unwind and read, for example). Add all the other tricks that you’d use to make a living space cozy, too, such as adding candles, intimate lighting, and warmth.

Plug Any IssuesBecause your basement wasn’t originally designed to be used as a living space, there will be certain things that you’ll need to do to get it up to the standards of modern living. Water, for instance, can be an issue, so take a look at HelitechOnline.com/waterproofing to waterproof your basement; it’ll prevent the space from becoming damp and dingy. The cold will also be a factor, especially during the chillier months. You’ll be well served by adding insulation, and possibly a heater so that the room can get nice and toasty. Nothing will undo the luxury feel of the basement than a biting chill!

Entertainment OptionsYou’re not going to just sit down there and bask in the glory of your converted basement: you want to make it a fun space! For this, you’ll need to take a look at all the modern entertainment options. If you can have them upstairs, you can have them downstairs, providing you’ve worked with an electrician to add more plug sockets. What you add will depend on your interests, but things like a sound system, television, and games consoles are all recommended, especially if you have children. The basement could also provide a trial run for your foray into the wonderful world that is the Internet of Things, for which new products are coming out all the time.

Cover Any Practical AspectsOf course, there will be elements of your basement that have to retain their ‘practical’ quality. It might be where your boiler is located. There will be exposed pipes. Unless you’re going for that chic industrial look (not recommended), it’ll be worthwhile covering up the more practical aspects of your basement. In so doing, you’ll have a fully fledged luxury spot, rather than a room that seems to blend the line between functionality and comfort.

Walk OutThis won’t be possible in all households, but if you can create a walkout from your basement into your yard, then it’s recommended that you do so. This will take the space from ‘comfortable basement’ to a bona fide, new living area on your property. It will require more work to expand any window you have into a walkway, but it’ll allow the room to have much more natural light, and it’ll also just be more pleasant to step straight from the basement into the sunshine on summer days. If you don’t have enough space for a walkout, then a larger window will be the next best thing.

Fully StockedIf you’re going to take the time to transform your basement, then it’s recommended that you add a bar area, one that’s fully stocked with beer, wine, and spirits. In so doing, you’ll have the perfect social space for when friends and family come to visit. Having your very own bar isn’t as difficult as you might think; indeed, you can make one yourself if you feel comfortable taking on a woodwork project. After that, it’s all about loading it up with all the most popular spirits, and adding a fridge to keep those craft beers and wine cold.

Bringing the ColorYou can make your basement pop, just be adopting the same approach that you would with any other room in your house: bringing the color, and making it look appealing. The walls are your canvas; build them up with photos, works of art, funky colors, and more. Because this room is less ”on show” than other parts of your home, you should feel free to push the boat out and really make the room pop.

The Wow FactorFinally, remember to dream big! There’s no shortage of options when it comes to your basement; it’s a space that allows you to have the types of room you always want to have, such as a reading den, home cinema room, or a games room.

This is a collaborative post.

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